New Miami Township Library manager Elise French highlights innovative services and programs

Elise French, the new manager of the Miami Township branch library, made a splash at the Milford City Council meeting, unveiling a host of innovative services aimed at enhancing community access to library resources. French, who took the stage to introduce herself, highlighted the library's evolution and its commitment to serving the public, especially in the wake of COVID-19.

One of the standout features she discussed was the introduction of library lockers, which allow patrons to pick up materials 24/7. In 2023 alone, the Miami Township branch saw approximately 7,000 items checked out from these lockers, catering to those unable to visit during regular hours. French emphasized the convenience this brings to busy families and individuals with mobility challenges.

Additionally, the library offers curbside service, allowing patrons to call ahead or notify staff from the parking lot to have their holds brought directly to their cars. This service is particularly beneficial for seniors and parents with young children.

French also shared exciting news about the library's online programming, including Zoom story times and a monthly movie club, ensuring that even those who cannot physically attend can still engage with library offerings. She noted that while December will not feature story times, the library is currently hosting a holiday open house.

Looking ahead, French announced the upcoming "We Love the Library" challenge, encouraging patrons to log their reading minutes throughout the year, with a goal of reaching 12 million minutes across the Clermont County system. She also highlighted the importance of the summer reading program, designed to combat the "summer slide" in education for children.

With these initiatives, the Miami Township library is not just a place for books but a vibrant community hub, adapting to the needs of its patrons and inviting everyone to rediscover the joys of reading and learning.